Packable rain gear

March 18, 2014|By Terry Gardner, Special to Tribune Newspapers

(ExOfficio)

Name: ExOfficio Women's Rain Logic Jacket (there is a men's version)

What it is: a well-designed waterproof, windproof, quick-drying and breathable hooded rain jacket that is easy to pack. It features a lightweight fabric to repel water, a second layer of polyurethane laminate to block wind and a protective shiny half-layer inside that provides slickness to keep the jacket from clinging to clothing. The drawstring hood has a brim and is light and comfortable, so you don't feel trapped. The whole 13.5-ounce jacket packs into the hood. Except for an internal pocket for eyeglasses, all pockets are zippered and waterproof.

The good: This has become my must-pack weather accessory. I often skip my umbrella and just pack this jacket to deal with inclement weather. In Palau, the under-arm zippered vents became my favorite feature, because they helped cool me off during tropical showers. The waterproof pockets are a plus, because my iPhone died from water exposure on a ferry when I wore a slicker that wasn't so equipped. A hidden zippered pocket for valuables is ideal for travelers, and the eyeglass pocket secures your shades when the sun disappears.

The bad: It's pricey, but you get what you pay for. This should last several years.